Advanced techniques and methodologies for brain circuit-level analysis
In recent years, significant advancements in neuroscience tools have provided researchers with a new in-depth perspective on brain function. Novel anatomical, optical, genetic, electrophysiological, and imaging approaches have opened new possibilities for investigating neuronal circuits.
This hands-on course offers advanced training on various tools used for the analysis of neuronal circuits, including neuronal tracing strategies, fiber photometry, calcium/sensor imaging with miniaturized microscopes, in vivo electrophysiology, and opto- and chemo-genetics. The course places a strong emphasis on how to design and develop a correct experiment using these tools, and on the appropriate controls, and on the limitations of these methodologies. This approach ensures that participants comprehend the strengths and limitations of each technique and can design, implement, and interpret experiments correctly. By the end of the course, students will have gained the basic skills and knowledge necessary to undertake innovative research projects in neuroscience.
The main objectives of this course are to:
- Use conventional tracers and viral tools for different neuronal tracing strategies;
- Analyze neuronal activity or neurotransmitter release through fiber photometry recordings;
- Image neuronal activity and/or neurotransmitter release in vivo using 1-Photon microscopy;
- Perform extracellular recordings of neuronal activity using multi-channel silicone probes in anesthetized and freely behaving animals;
- Accomplish neuronal manipulation using optogenetics and chemogenetics tools.
For all of the methodologies, we will also provide the fundamentals for data analysis using open-source tools.
The course is structured into three modules:
- Module 1. Brain anatomy: from cells to circuits
- Module 2. Neuronal activity and neurotransmitters
- Module 3. Data analysis
Module 1 focuses on the evaluation of neuronal connectivity, encompassing conventional tracing strategies and cutting-edge viral approaches. Participants will also gain hands-on experience in stereotaxic surgeries and brain processing techniques for connectivity analysis.
Module 2, a critical overview of tools for assessing neuronal activity will be presented. This includes calcium imaging using 1-photon microscopy, as well as large-scale electrophysiology utilizing silicone probes. Evaluation of neurotransmitter release using genetically encoded neurotransmitter sensors and fiber photometry will also be covered.
Module 3 centers on data analysis techniques for different types of data. Participants will be trained in open-source tools and coding for analyzing calcium imaging data from 1-photon microscopy, neurotransmitter sensor data, and large-scale electrophysiology data
More information: www.med.uminho.pt/en/post-graduation/courses/brain-circuit
